Kristine Collins (Krissy) is the dean, Division of Continuing Education at UC Irvine. She is a proud
leader in non-traditional education and lifelong learning who comes to UCI with two decades of
experience working in two of Canada’s most well-respected institutions: the University of Toronto
and the National Film Board of Canada. Additionally, Collins has worked in an XR edtech start-up
and has collaborated with intersectoral corporations to establish creative solutions for high quality
learning. As Assistant Dean at the University of Toronto, School of Continuing Studies – Canada’s
largest continuing education division – she established and launched U of T’s first micro credential
program, led partnerships with over 25 professional associations, has served as the secretary-
treasurer and incoming president of the Canadian Association for Continuing Education, and has
spoken extensively and advised on the development of high quality, non-credit programming and
partnerships. Krissy currently sits on the Coursera Council, is a mentor in the UPCEA Uplift Network,
and serves her community as the Vice President of the University Hills Narwhals. She is a former
board member of MediaSmarts and the Ontario Federal Council. Krissy holds a Master of Arts
degree in Communication and Culture with a specialization in media and society from Toronto
Metropolitan University and York University, and a B.A. with Distinction in Communication Studies
from Concordia University in Montreal, where she was an Academic All-Canadian varsity basketball
player. Krissy is committed to access, positive leadership, and ensuring that all locations of learning
and work are inclusive and welcoming.